intervew of Nicola Zichella to Daniel Garwin paramedic at Quebec Government Canada

The paramedical systems in Canada are different in each province. For instance,

In Quebec, we are run by the provincial government.
In Ontario, the system is run by municipal government
In New Brunswick, the system is run by private enterprise
In British Columbia, the provincial government
In Alberta, Provincial government
In Manitoba, private enterprise
In Prince Edward Island, Local government…

I have been working as a paramedic for more than 28 years.

The main task of a paramedic is to respond in medical emergencies and to transfer medical patients. In each province, as I mentioned the structure is different but most have basic life support, advanced life support and critical care support. The only intervention with police would be the tactical medics and police support for mentally ill patients that are potentially violent. Some police services carry defibrillators in the squad cars but not all services.

Paramedics in Canada wear a service uniform. Many have a dress uniform for official events and many have Honour Guards. I am the commander of our Honour Guard.

To become a paramedic in Quebec three years training full time at the college level is required.

Paramedical units do not include physicians. We have a medical director who is a physician but they do not work outside of a hospital setting.

The service is structured as such: Basic life support paramedics are expected to work six months on a probationary basis. Once they complete that, they are considered Primary care paramedics. They can choose to continue their education and eventually become advanced life support care paramedice if they pass a primary exam. We also have tactical medics, bicycle patrol medics and public affairs paramedics who work in schools educating the public. We have supervisory staff well structured to see that protocols are applied properly. Paramedics are required to re-certify annually.

Police are given very basic medical techniques by the public affairs paramedics.

Yes, all first responders are important in rapid intervention, especially cardiac arrest.